Saratoga Springs – John Patrick Monaghan (Jack) died on Feb. 4, 2008, at his home, the Embury Apartments, where he lived for the past three years. Born on May 15, 1918 in Girardsville, PA, Jack was the son of the late Dr. William Joseph and Mary Lenore (MacNeill) Monaghan.

Jack grew up in New Jersey and was a graduate of the Farragut Naval Academy. Following graduation, he worked for Wright Aeronautics in Patterson, NJ before entering the Army in 1942 where he served in the European Theatre until 1945. While in England, he met his wife, Janet, who was there serving as a member of the American Red Cross. They wed in Germany and settled in the greater Kansas City area upon returning to the United States. Jack was a Freight Traffic Manager with Saunders Petroleum Company for 27 years in Kansas City and for five years in Greeley, Colorado. They retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas in 1981.

Jack was an avid golfer and sports fan, a vociferous reader, a daunting bridge player, and he and his wife loved “road trips.” He coached youth baseball and softball for 15 years and sang in church choirs for 49 years. He volunteered as a speaker for UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) and for the “Jason Project” at the Walton Art Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he also ushered for 17 years. 

Jack will be missed for his twinkling Irish eyes, his wry sense of humor, his old-world gentility, and his interminable optimism.

He is predeceased by his parents, siblings, and his beloved wife, Jan. He is survived by his children, Michael (Helen) in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Margot in Chicago, IL, Malcolm (Martha) in Glen Gardiner, NJ, Maureen (Sheldon) of Saratoga Springs, NY; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. 

The family would like to thank all those who cared for and loved their dad throughout his life. We would especially like to thank Barb, Beth and LouAnn and her gals for their kindness, gentleness and love for Jack at the end of his life. 

Arrangements were under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway in Saratoga Springs.